The Pillnitz Camellia is one of the oldest Japanese camellias in Europe, over 250 years old, growing in the park of Pillnitz Castle near Dresden. During its flowering season from February to April, it bursts into up to 35,000 carmine-red blooms, making it a truly memorable sight even for visitors who aren't usually drawn to gardens.

The tree stands almost 9 meters tall with a crown spanning nearly 11 meters, an impressive sight up close. The castle park itself is a lovely place for a relaxed walk along the Elbe river, surrounded by baroque architecture and terraced gardens. In winter the camellia is protected by a movable glass greenhouse, while in the warmer months it stands freely amid the park's greenery.

• Dresden city center — by riverboat along the Elbe or by bus, approx. 30-40 minutes, easy route suitable for everyone
• Parking near Schloss Pillnitz — short walk on flat park terrain

• Flowering period: February-April, up to 35,000 blooms
• Winter protection: movable greenhouse from October to May, heated to 4-6°C
• Tree height: approx. 8.90 m, crown diameter: approx. 11 m
• Awarded the title 'Historic Camellia' by the International Camellia Society in 2025

Legend has it that the camellia was brought from Japan by Carl Peter Thunberg in the 18th century, though recent genetic research casts doubt on this — what's certain is that it's the oldest camellia in Europe north of the Alps.